FILE: Denver Nuggets guard Ty Lawson, left, looks to pass the ball as Oklahoma City Thunder guard Andre Roberson defends in the first quarter of an NBA basketball game Monday, Feb. 9, 2015, in Denver.

(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
The Boston Celtics have had “exploratory talks” with the Denver Nuggets about acquiring Ty Lawson, according to Grantland’s Zach Lowe.

Though Lowe reported Monday morning that “it’s unclear how interested (the Celtics) really are,” the discussions suggest they are not resigned to being sellers only at the deadline (although that outcome presumably remains a possibility).

Would Lawson fit?

Pros

The Celtics desperately need someone who can create paint touches and get to the line. Lawson does both very well. He’s a speed demon who breaks down defenses, scores pretty efficiently, earns free throws and sits near the top of the NBA in any assist metric. He would consistently open better scoring opportunities than the Celtics can manage right now. His contract extends for two seasons beyond this one at a reasonable rate ($12.4 million in 2015-16 and $13.2 million in 2016-17) that will look more reasonable when the salary cap skyrockets for 2016-17. He would give the Celtics a better chance at reaching the playoffs and acquiring whatever useful experience that would provide for the younger players. He gives Denver’s offense a huge boost whenever he steps on the court. That would likely translate in Boston.

Cons

Lawson was recently arrested under suspicion of DUI, and, at 27, might have just a few years left at such a high level — he’s a small point guard who relies on being supremely fast and could slide as soon as he loses a step. There’s also the question about what to do with Marcus Smart. The rookie can fit off the ball — his spot-up shooting has been phenomenal — but long term, the coaching staff sees him as a point guard. He’s starting at the position now and making obvious strides. Would bringing in an established veteran hurt Smart’s development? Would Lawson — very good, but not quite elite — be worth that … – Click Here To Visit Article Source